Office of Access and Opportunity

The Patrick-Murray Administration
has been and remains committed to a broad interpretation and implementation of
the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all facets of
Executive Branch operations. In January 2007, the Governor issued Executive Order 478, which spells out this commitment in clear terms. In order to ensure that there is a single point of accountability within the Administration, the Governor launched the Access and Opportunity effort, headed by an Assistant
Secretary. To further clarify the Administration’s commitment to and expectations of state agencies to achieve nondiscrimination and equal opportunity in all facets of executive branch operations, the Governor issued Executive Order 519, which formally established the Office of Access and Opportunity (“Office”), and which spells out the responsibilities and authorities of the Office.

The Mission of the Office of Access and Opportunity is to be a catalyst for and coordinator of activities
that facilitate the executive branch’s efforts to achieve, maintain and enhance
an environment that fosters nondiscrimination and equal opportunity in state
services, programs and activities. Specific activities related to the mission
involve supporting the efforts of women, minorities, persons with a disability,
and others to gain employment and business opportunities with the Executive
Branch; partnering with internal and external stakeholders to advance social
and economic equity; and developing policies, programs and other mechanisms to
most effectively advance the objectives of nondiscrimination and equal
opportunity.

To advance this mission, the
Office of Access and Opportunity has developed four enduring strategic goals:

STRATEGIC GOAL 3

STRATEGIC GOAL 4

Bring forward a legislative and
policy agenda that (a) fulfills the preceding goals and/or that (b) enhances
the social and economic outcomes of low-income residents.

Governor’s House 1 Proposal

To further embed the work of the
Office of Access and Opportunity in the everyday fabric of state government
operations, the Governor’s fiscal year 2012 budget proposes to codify the
Office in the General Laws. Further information related to the Office of Access
and Opportunity can be found online at www.mass.gov/anf/oao.